President Bola Tinubu’s recent media chat has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). Both accused the administration of deepening economic hardships with poor policies and unchecked borrowing.
Atiku, through his media aide Paul Ibe, slammed the government’s borrowing habits, calling them reckless. “The economy is not improving. Nigerians are enduring unprecedented hardship this Christmas,” he said. Atiku questioned the lack of visible infrastructure improvements despite massive loans, adding, “Borrowing without purpose has only worsened our situation.”
Kwankwaso, represented by his party’s spokesperson, Ladipo Johnson, described the budget as insensitive. “This government ignores the pain of Nigerians. They must show seriousness by cutting costs instead of asking citizens to tighten their belts,” he said.
The Labour Party echoed these concerns. National Legal Adviser Kehinde Edun criticized Tinubu’s refusal to reconsider subsidy removal and his commitment to borrowing for infrastructure. “These policies are inflicting untold misery. The administration must reverse its approach to ease the suffering,” Edun said.
Opposition parties agree that this Christmas season marks one of the hardest for Nigerians in decades. The PDP’s Timothy Osadolor decried the skyrocketing cost of living and widespread hunger. “Millions cannot afford basic needs. This Christmas is a direct result of failed governance,” he stated.
The NNPP urged immediate policy reviews to address inflation and the declining value of the naira. “The signs are grim. Many families face a bleak holiday,” said Johnson.
Opposition leaders demanded reforms to address economic challenges. Mark Adebayo of CUPP criticized Tinubu’s spending priorities, including purchasing a presidential jet, as tone-deaf. “Leaders must reflect the sacrifices they demand from citizens,” he said.
Despite the harsh criticism, Nigerians hold onto hope for better governance. Opposition leaders emphasized the need for urgent policy changes to alleviate hardships and restore public confidence.
